Miss Garnet's Angel
Vickers, SallyWhen Julia Garnet is touched by the spirit of the Archangel Raphael depicted in the paintings she discovers in a local Venetian church, her cautious life begins an unexpected transformation ..."like the shifting sea-light of Venice, nothing here is quite as it seems".
Comments from Groups
This novel was warmly received for both content and writing style. Our discussion was lively. Miss Garnet herself was sympathetically portrayed, and the novel very optomistic about the possibility of change. The character of Carlo also provoked quite strong reactions, though not sympathetic. Hamilton 029 Our group had mixed feelings about this book. We enjoyed the setting of Venice and its beauty, however we found many aspects of the story very implausible... From an inauspicious start however, the character of Julia did improve, and we warmed to her as the story progressed. Pukeko 001 Enjoyed by all, particularly the evocation of Venice. Interesting to have an older, less attractive woman as the main character. Richmond 007 This book is so delicious! We all enjoyed it very much, and loved the evocative images of Venice and the exquisite language. We enjoyed the intertwining of themes of angels, love, and religious beliefs - and most of all, the awakening of Julia. Wellington 130 We loved this book. It was so much more than a travel book - more of a personal experience, and the development of her faith etc The ending was abrupt but we could understand why. A great read! Whangarei 003 This book really divided our group!! About half were enchanted - loving the main character, the setting, the 'extra' story, the descriptive language, and especially, the whole idea of a 'hierarchy of angels'. Others found it pretentious and contrived, and found the protagonist irritating. The discussion was unusually impassioned! Tauranga 014 We all enjoyed this story. Excellent historical facts interwoven with an intriguing plot. Miss Garnet was a pleasure to meet. Auckland 234
Pages
342
342
Year
2000
2000
Reviews
13-09-2021
On the whole this book was well received by the group. Opinions differed as to preference of Miss Garnet's story or Tobit's story, or both. Discussion was not as lively as for some of the books we have read previously.
13-09-2021
Interesting story of the changes in Julia's life and outlook on life. Majority of the group really enjoyed the book - easy to read, good descriptions and character. Quite a few of the group have visited Venice and found the descriptions very realistic.
13-09-2021
From a shaky start, the book came into its own and the whole group enjoyed it. We were challenged to look up the meaning of 'apocryphal'!
13-09-2021
We all enjoyed this book and its two stories, and the setting of Venice. Beautifully written.
13-09-2021
Evoked great memories of Venice.
13-09-2021
Excellent discussion.
13-09-2021
Most of the group enjoyed the book, although found the questions a bit tricky. One member had what we thought was a brilliant insight into the name 'Garnet' - as she started to sparkle when she was in Venice.
13-09-2021
90% of readers enjoyed the book. Most particularly liked the historical, biblical and whimsical nature of the book, and the parallel story theme.